Estimator - Corrugator Packaging

Are you a detail-oriented problem solver with a knack for numbers and a passion for packaging?

Hood Container Corporation is looking for a skilled Estimator – Corrugated Packaging to join our team in Lebanon, TN. In this role, you’ll be the go-to expert for analyzing customer specifications, calculating production costs, and preparing competitive price quotes that help us win new business. You’ll work closely with our sales, design, production, and procurement teams to ensure every estimate is accurate, competitive, and aligned with our manufacturing capabilities.

This position is part of our Customer Service team and reports to the Customer Service Manager.

• Analyze customer needs: Review drawings, specifications, and RFQs to prepare accurate estimates.

• Calculate costs: Determine material usage, labor, machine time, and other production costs for corrugated packaging jobs.

• Collaborate across teams: Partner with sales, design, production, and procurement to gather critical data.

• Engage vendors: Obtain pricing for outsourced materials and services.

• Leverage technology: Use estimating software and ERP systems (e.g., Amtech, Kiwiplan) to generate formal quotations.

• Optimize pricing: Analyze historical data and market trends to ensure competitive bids.

• Track progress: Maintain organized records, update quote statuses, and follow up with internal teams.

• Experience: Proven experience as an Estimator in the corrugated packaging industry (or related manufacturing/estimating role).

• Industry knowledge: Familiarity with corrugated board types, flutes, coatings, and converting processes.

• Technical skills: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings; proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

• Software skills: Experience with structural design software (e.g., ArtiosCAD) and ERP/estimating systems preferred.

• Core strengths: Strong math, analytical, and problem-solving skills; excellent communication and teamwork abilities; high attention to detail.

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Packaging Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.

• Competitive pay & benefits: Base salary of $75,000–$90,000 , quarterly bonus program, and a comprehensive benefits package. Learn more at www.hoodcontainer.com/benefits .

• Continuous learning: We invest in paid training and development to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
• Caring & Empowering Company Culture : Supportive & collaborative team dedicated to seeing you unbox your potential to help make a difference & customers happy.
• Growing Company in a Sustainable Industry: Consider a Future in Corrugated Packaging

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens and customers we serve. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.

Hood Container Corporation is a family-owned, Mill to Market company, specializing in containerboard and kraft paper, corrugated boxes, high graphic displays, and contract packaging. Our commitment to customer happiness, employee well-being, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence drive our business. Over the last decade, Hood Container Corporation has grown to become one of the top ten Paper and Packaging Companies in the United States. To learn more about Hood Container Corporation visit www.hoodcontainer.com or check us out on Social Media!